Baby eczema

Eczema is a skin irritation that appears as patches of dry, red, scaly skin which may become moist. Most common places are the front of knees and ankles and insides of wrists.

 

 

What causes or aggravates eczema?

 

• It can run in families.
• Certain foods may provoke attacks in infants.
• Rough, scratchy tight clothes.
• Wools and synthetics (such as carpets, car seats, furniture).
• Frequent use of strong soap for bathing or washing clothes.
• Perfumed creams and lotions.
• Dust.
• Overheating.
• Dry air.
• Sand. 
  
  

What can I do for eczema?

 

• Dress baby in light, soft, loose, smooth cotton clothes - don't overdress.
• Use lukewarm water in the bath.
• Avoid soaps and cleansing lotions - use glycerine cream for soap at bath time and change time.
• Put mittens or socks on baby's hands to stop them scratching.
• Wash baby's clothes in pure soap - don't use fabric softeners or wool mix. Rinse well in water.
• When putting baby on the floor to play, place on a cotton sheet, not the carpet.
• Regularly vacuum the house.
  

If the eczema doesn't get better, see a paediatric dermatologist.

TIP!

 

If baby has eczema, reduce contact with people that have cold sores as baby can develop infections from this virus.